UK initiates call for extra-large uncrewed undersea vehicles

The UK is calling for suppliers to register their interest in participating in preliminary market engagements relating to the Type 93 extra-large uncrewed undersea vehicle (XLUUV) for its navy.  

Insights from suppliers will specifically be used to inform requirements, future market engagements, and wider planning for the XLUUVs, as well as associated payloads and enabling systems as part of the first AUKUS Pillar II signature project.  

An announcement from the Ministry of Defence on 12 October says that registered suppliers will be invited to take part in activities such as collaborative workshops, meetings, industry days, and written requests for information.  

While the navy is currently considering XLUUV platforms around 2m in diameter and 12m in length, companies with differently sized platforms may also respond to the call. SMEs in particular are encouraged to register.  

According to the defence ministry, organisations “should aim” to register their interest via Microsoft Forms by 29 October.  

Why is the UK seeking XLUUVs?  

In seeking to bolster its XLUUV and associated capabilities, the UK defence ministry is supporting the Royal Navy’s wider transition to a hybrid fleet of crewed and uncrewed systems.  

The engagements will also contribute to the AUKUS Pillar II signature project, which will see Australia, the UK, and US develop interchangeable UUV payloads.